CEO Dialogue in Chitwan focuses on expanding Nepali businesses through AI

CHITWAN: The third edition of the CEO Dialogue programme concluded in Chitwan today, bringing together experts and entrepreneurs to discuss expanding Nepali businesses internationally through artificial intelligence.

Organised as part of the US–Nepal Commercial Diplomacy Series, the event was supported by the US Embassy in Nepal and convened by the International Development Institute and Aadyanta Advisory, in partnership with Fusemachines. Following earlier editions held in Pokhara and Bhairahawa, this session focused on capital preparation, market strategies and the practical application of AI for global growth.

Parag Shrestha, managing director, South Asia and head of strategy at Fusemachines Inc., outlined strategies for international expansion in the AI era, drawing from the company's journey of scaling from Nepal to the global market. His presentation covered identifying market opportunities, validating demand, product localisation, effective market-entry measures and building a credible investment case to attract investors.

Rajesh Sikhrakar, AI education lead at Fusemachines, gave practical examples of AI use across sectors such as agriculture, finance, customer service, operations management, tourism and services. Presentations also covered legal and policy considerations for entering overseas markets, practical tools for global expansion and the preparations investors expected from Nepali companies.

The event was attended by 60 young entrepreneurs, innovators, business operators, investors and representatives from concerned bodies in the entrepreneurial sector from Chitwan and neighbouring districts. Participants said the programme brought together representatives from the public and private sectors on a single platform to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the entrepreneurial ecosystem.